366 Pond Road, Mount Vernon, Maine.
207-293-4978
History of Mout Vernon Post Offices
In a country village, like Mount Vernon, the Post Office has always played a central and vital role in community life. Friends and neighbors could depend on meeting there as well as receiving communications from the "outside world." This wonderful tradition of village life is being continued by The Old Post Office Café. Liz, Eric, Shari and staff extend a warm welcome to you all.
From 1792, when Mount Vernon was established as a town, to 1903, all postal activities were carried out by the postwaster in his home or place of business. Postmaster Will Carson, in 1903, built the first post office building, which is now the Lakeside Serendipity Shop (across the street).
The post office also functioned as the telephone office, serving the 13 telephone lines that existed at the time in Mount Vernon and was also the stage coach stop. This was used as a post office until 1964, when the office was moved to the building which became The Old Post Office Café.
Bertha and Louis Redonnet were prominent postmasters in the post office in the 1920s and 1930s. Mrs. Redonnet's father had invented formaldehyde and her share of the family fortune enabled the Redonnets to make frequent extended stays elsewhere, leaving post office duties to substitutes on many occasions.
Lizzie Chase was probably the most colorful postmistess in the United Stages. A short bustling woman with very outspoken views, Lizzie told people what was on her mind and in no uncertain terms. Mail was hand cancelled in those days, and Lizzie would apply 100 lbs of pressure on every letter. Her cancelling device is on display at the current post office. She served from 1942 – 1957.
Clayton Dolloff and his handsome wife Dot were everyone's idea of perfect postmasters to preside over a post office in the 1960s and 1970s. The Dolloffs were highly efficient, friendly and discreet in every way. They are fondly remembered and missed to this very day.
Debbie Leschinski retired as Mount Vernon Postmaster in March 2005 after 28 years of service. In 1997, under her supervision, the post office was moved from the Café building to its current location on Main Street.
Everyone misses Debbie's gentle, easygoing manner but the adjustment has been made easier by appointment of current Postmaster Bob Harris. His congenial and outoing style make him a pleasure to work with.
